Guide About Rental Dispute in Dubai

If you are renting a home or office in Dubai, sometimes problems can happen between you and your landlord or tenant. These problems are called rental disputes in Dubai. 

This guide will help you understand what rental disputes are, why they happen, and how to solve them. You will also learn about your tenant rights in Dubai and the best ways to get fair help from the rental dispute center Dubai.

What Is a Rental Dispute?

A rental dispute occurs when landlords and tenants do not agree on things like the property or the rent. There can be multiple issues when it comes to properties, such as payments on the rent, repairs, security deposits, or when one wants to leave and the other doesn’t agree. 

If there is no agreement between the landlord and tenant, they should file a rental dispute Dubai to be helped by the right people.

Why Are There So Many Rental Disputes In Dubai?

Dubai is an enormous city, and there are many rentals for homes and for offices. Because of the large number of rentals available, there can be some issues. 

A few of the reasons why rental disputes are often seen in Dubai are the following:

• Increase in rent by landlords not in accordance with the law.
• Overdue payments of rent by renters.
• Problems with the upkeep and maintenance of the property.
• Disputes concerning the return of deposits. 
• Problems with the terms of inclusion in the lease contracts.

What are people complaining about when it comes to renting in Dubai? 

• Increase in Rents

There are times when the landlords just want to increase the rent. However, there are laws in Dubai concerning how much they can increase rent. There can also be an increase in rent that goes beyond the laws and the tenant can argue against it. This situation can be solved by following the Dubai Rent Dispute Resolution Steps.

• Retaining Security Deposits

Landlords have the right to keep the whole security deposit, or part of it, after a rental period, if they say that the tenant owed money or that there are damages. Some renters think that there are unfair security deposit deductions and disputes this.

• Maintenance and Repairs

There are often disagreements about who should be the one to cover the expenses. For large repairs, like plumbing and electric, the landlords are the ones responsible. Tenants usually fix small problems, like lightbulbs.

• Unclear Lease Agreement Terms

Sometimes, lease contracts have confusing or missing rules. This might lead to fights about rent payment dates, what happens if the tenant wants to leave early, or if pets are allowed. 

• Eviction Notices  

When a landlord needs a tenant to vacate the property, that is called an eviction. Some people may disagree and think that an eviction is not justified.  

Why People File For Rental Disputes In Dubai  

When landlords and tenants have run out of options to solve a problem, they can file a rental dispute in Dubai. With RERA rental dispute center Dubai. 

Some reasons people file these disputes include:  

• Not following the RERA rules on rent increase.
• Eviction without notice or a valid reason.  
• Unlawful deductions, or just an overall large deduction from the security deposit.  
• Not keeping the property in a decent condition.  
• Not following the terms in the tenancy contract.  

What are the Rental Laws and Rights in Dubai

Dubai has special laws to protect both tenants and landlords in rental agreements. Knowing these rental laws and your rights is important for avoiding and solving rental disputes in Dubai. The main law that guides this is called the Dubai Tenancy Law (Law No. 26 of 2007).

What is Dubai Tenancy Law (Law No. 26 of 2007)

This law explains the rules landlords and tenants must follow when renting property in Dubai. It covers important things like how rent can be increased, how evictions should happen, and who is responsible for repairs. This law protects tenant rights in Dubai and makes sure everyone follows fair rental practices.

What is Ejari Registration

Ejari is the system where every tenancy contract in Dubai must be registered. When you register your rental agreement in Dubai with Ejari, your agreement automatically becomes official. This is the point where your agreement is legally binding. 

What is the Importance of Ejari Registration

This is important because only contracts that are registered in Ejari are considered valid in case you need to file a rental dispute Dubai. Without an Ejari-registered tenancy contract, you will not be able to obtain the proof that is needed to prove your tenancy agreement in the Rental Dispute Centre, Dubai court or its equivalent. . 

Are there any Rent Increase Regulation in Dubai

Understanding the Dubai rental agreement you have or are going to have is important due to the fact that a landlord can only increase the rent of said property once a year. 

This is along with the fact that there is a standard or limit to how much a landlord can increase the rent due to the fact that there is an RERA rental index. 

What is a RERA rental dispute Index

A RERA rental dispute index is a database that compares your rent to other similar properties that have been rented in Dubai. If it is determined that your rent is close to the average, then the landlord is only legally allowed to increase your rent by a small amount. If that is the case, and your landlord tries to increase your rent by a large amount, then it is your right to be able to challenge said rental agreement in the Rental Dispute Centre in Dubai.

Security Deposit Rules

Most landlords request one month of rent as a security deposit. This is to ensure the landlords are covered in the event of damages or unpaid bills. At the end of the term of the lease agreement, the landlord is required to give back the deposit while taking into account the unpaid damages or bills. 

What are the Tenant Rights in Dubai and Responsibilities

In Dubai, tenants are allowed to reside in a unit that is in good condition, and is clean and safe, as well as to receive prompt responses to outstanding repair requests that are major in nature. 

On the other hand, tenants need to comply with the tenancy agreement, pay their rent on time, and keep the unit in good condition. 

Also, tenants are allowed to request to be treated with fairness and are allowed to respond to actions that are unreasonable, such as eviction without proper cause or a sudden increase in rent.

What are the Landlord Rights and Responsibilities

Landlords have the right to receive rent, and they can also check on their property, but they have to give a 24-hour notice. Also, landlords are responsible for the safety of the property and have to do the major repairs. Landlords can ask tenants to leave, but they need to have a good legal reason, and they have to follow the eviction laws.

Are there Any Rules for Eviction and Termination

In Dubai, there are specific rules for landlords, and landlords have to follow specific rules and procedures before evicting a tenant. 

They must send a tenant a written letter explaining the reason for the eviction, along with the appropriate notice time. 

Some reasons include a tenant not paying rent or the landlord needing the property for personal reasons. 

Depending on the reason for the eviction, the notice should be a minimum of 90 to 12 months.  

It is legal for a tenant to appeal to the court if the tenant believes an eviction is unfair or illegal. Both parties should follow the law to avoid rental disputes in Dubai.

What are the Steps for the Rental Dispute Resolution Process in Dubai

Step 1: Attempt an Amicable Resolution

• Importance of Open Communication

The best way to solve a rental dispute Dubai is by talking honestly with the other person. If you are a tenant, speak kindly with your landlord. If you are a landlord, listen carefully to the tenant. Good communication can stop problems before they grow bigger.

• Documenting Conversations as Proof

Always keep track of your talks with the other side. Write down messages, emails, or notes. This way, if you need help later, you have proof that you tried to solve the problem peacefully.

Step 2: Look at the Tenancy Agreement

• Understanding the Contract Bits

Take a good look at the tenancy contract. These are the terms that both sides have agreed upon such as rental fees and the time period the contract is for.

• Checking Maintenance, Rent, and Eviction Policies

To start, find out who has the authority to handle maintenance, and what their policies are concerning unpaid rent. Review the terms of eviction so that you are aware of the reasons and the processes that are in place for a person to be removed from the property.

Step 3: Requesting Mediation Through RERA

• Overview of RERA’s Mediation Services

If you can’t come to a resolution and agree with the other party, you can call RERA. RERA has a mediation service, in which an unbiased party helps the landlords and tenants come to an agreement out of court.

• Form Submission and Documentation

To start the process, you have to fill out a form, which you have to send to RERA with your documents, like the tenancy contract and proof of rent payment receipts.

• When to Seek Legal Advice (New Section on Escalation Timing) 

If you still can’t agree with mediation, that’s a good time to speak to a lawyer. A lawyer can provide you with their options and guide you to the next steps.

Step 4: Submitting a Case to the Rental Dispute Settlement Centre (RDSC)

As a result of the rental dispute, RDSC can be used by landlords of the rentals and their tenants.

• Filing Fees and Procedure

Filing a case does cost money, but the amount is low and can be paid over the internet or at the RDSC desks located at the RDSC.

• How to Fill a Case Online or In Person

Submitting a case is possible through the appropriate internet site or by going in person to the RDSC.

• Documents Needed to File a Case

The Ejari certificate, the tenancy agreement, rent payment receipts, and proof of other communications between the parties must be included.

Step 5: Attend RDSC Mediation Sessions

• Overview of the Hearing Process

All parties involved in the mediation are required to participate in sessions designed to resolve disputes that the RDSC has been asked to mediate.

Step 6: Legal Proceedings (If Necessary)

• Litigation Before the Centre

If mediation is unsuccessful, the next step in a case is formal hearings.

• Hearings and Evidence Submission

There is the possibility of hearings occurring in multiple separate sessions, and all documents and evidence should be at the judge’s disposal.

How the Appeal Works and When It Should Be Filed

A party that feels the decision is unjust may file an appeal form within a designated time frame.

• Judgment Compliance

After a decision is reached, it is binding and must be adhered to. The center ensures both parties comply with the decision.

• Appeal Department Specifics

If someone does not agree with the decision, they can ask for an appeal. But small cases may not have the chance to be appealed. When the appeal decision is made, it is usually the final decision.

• Timing and Scheduling of Hearings Based on Complexity

Simple cases are fast and easy, but complex cases need more time and many meetings. The court plans hearing dates depending on how much work the case needs.

Step 7: Legal Resources: Monitor Your Rent Dispute Resolution in Dubai

• Implementing Court Orders

When a case is finalized, both parties must do what the agreement outlines, such as making payments or fixing issues.

• Documentation

Keep all documents related to the dispute and its resolution safe in case of a future dispute.

What are Alternative Dispute Resolution and Legal Remedies

Sometimes rental dispute cases in Dubai are left unsolved if people just talk or visit the rental dispute centre Dubai. In this case, there are other methods to resolve the issue. Let’s take a look.

What is the Purpose and Structure of the RDSC? 

The Rental Dispute Settlement Centre or RDSC is the official governmental service in Dubai for landlords and tenants to provide rental disputes to be resolved. Understanding what this Centre is and what it does can assist you in making the most of its services whenever you need to submit a case involving Rental Dispute Dubai.

• The Scope and Structure of the Centre

The RDSC was set up by Dubai’s government to manage all rental disputes in the emirate. It deals with cases like unpaid rent and eviction requests. Security deposit problems and contract disagreements. The centre has two main parts: a judicial sector that makes legal decisions.

• Judicial Sector Departments

The judicial part of the RDSC includes several departments. The First Instance Department is where most cases start. It has committees made up of judges and real estate experts who hear the cases and make rulings. There is also an Appeal Department for reviewing decisions if someone asks to challenge a ruling.

• Administrative Sector and Support Divisions

The administrative side helps with paperwork, appointments, and document translation. And managing the daily operations of the centre. They ensure everything runs smoothly and assist parties with filing claims.

• Reconciliation Department Function

One integral function of the Reconciliation Department of the RDSC is its role in assisting landlords and tenants settle rental disagreements out of court amicably. This department is designed to settle disputes in a  15-day time frame and assist both parties to reach an agreement without the need for formal legal assistance.

What are the Language and Translation Requirements

All the court activities at RDSC are conducted in Arabic, the official language used in the courts of Dubai. In case documents are submitted in other languages, the center will translate to Arabic. All parties need to understand this rule so they can prepare their papers accordingly.

Appeal Division and Finality of Judgments

If a person does not agree with the First Instance Division’s decision, they are entitled to appeal to the Appeal Division. The section has judges and property specialists, who review the matter carefully. However, decisions of this Division are generally final and binding within the jurisdiction of Dubai.

What is the Time and the Scheduling of Hearings 

How long a case takes depends on several factors. In the case of simple matters, the resolution will be more rapid, whereas complex matters containing numerous documents or expert reports take more time. The centre allocates time for the hearings based on the requirements of the case to ensure all disputes are attended to.

Enforcement of Judgements and Recovery of Assets

When a decision becomes final, the RDSC makes sure that both the landlord and the tenant comply with the decision. If a tenant owes rent or money, the centre can help find assets or money to pay the landlord. Enforcement means the court helps make sure everyone obeys the law and the decision.

What is the Eviction Procedures by the Centre

If the court decides a tenant must leave, the RDSC schedules the eviction. The centre arranges for officials to help the landlord take back the property following legal rules. Evictions happen only after proper notice and court approval to protect tenants’ rights.

Are There Any Limits on Appeals on Small Claims

Not every case is allowed to have an appeal. For example, if the rental dispute is for a small amount of money (usually around AED 100,000), appeals will not be permitted unless on a case-by-case basis. This helps the system be fair and avoid delays in small claims.

What is the the Importance of Mediation and Arbitration

Mediation means a neutral person helps both sides agree. Arbitration is like a private court where an expert decides. These ways are faster and cheaper than going to court.

What are the Legal Options Beyond the RDSC 

• Approaching Dubai Courts

If mediation or the RDSC does not work, you can go to the Dubai courts. Courts take longer and cost more, but give a final decision that must be followed.

• Hiring Real Estate Lawyers

A real estate lawyer understands the Dubai rent dispute rules. They can help explain your rights and defend you in court when necessary.

• Cost, Time, Effort

The court is the most time-consuming and costly option. This is why people first try mediation or arbitration.

• Specialised Contract Issues

Lack of understanding of simple rules concerning a contract can lead to rental issues. This can also be the case when problematic contracts involve property developments..

• Analysis of Contract Rules and Cancellation Clauses

Any contract is likely to contain provisions that allow the landlord or the tenant to terminate the contract at an earlier time than the one set in the contract. It is crucial to go through such provisions so as to ensure that all parties understand the expectations.

• Legal Risk Management and Problem Keeping

When a dispute arises, people stop using the property and putting it to its intended purpose.  If appropriate measures are in place, the property can continue to be used, even if there is an existing issue.

What are the Proactive Steps to Prevent Rental Dispute Dubai

• Maintaining Clear and Comprehensive Lease Agreements

Be sure to clearly outline all of the rental rules to ensure that the landlord and the tenant are on the same page.

• Using Ejari Registration for Legal Protection

Register your rental contract with Ejari to have it properly recognised and safeguarded by the law.

• Keeping Detailed Records and Communication Logs

Keep all communication related to the rental, along with any notes and documents.

• Clarifying Maintenance Responsibilities

Determine and document who is responsible for what repair and maintenance tasks before the rental period begins.

• Conducting Joint Inspections at Move-In and Move-Out

The landlord and tenant should do a walk-through of the rental property together at the start and at the end of the rental period.

Why It’s Important To Talk To Each Other As A Tenant And A Landlord

If everyone communicated more, they would realise they are all on the same page, and there wouldn’t be as many problems.

How RERA-Accredited Real Estate Agents Help Avoid Problems

If you use qualified professionals, you will be able to secure fair rental terms and avoid problems.

What Tenants Should Know About Eviction In Dubai

• The Reasons A Landlord Can Evict A Tenant Before The Contract Ends (Law Article 25 (1))

If tenants have not made their rental payments or are violating the rental contract terms, landlords may have the right to inform the tenant to vacate the premises before the lease contract’s end date.

• Tenants Being Evicted After The Lease Ends (Law Article 25(2))

Where tenants have not had their lease renewed, there is also the right for landlords to request the tenant to vacate the premises after the lease has expired, as is the case in Dubai.

• Legal Notice Period and Particulars to Notify (Minimum 90 to 1 Year)

Landlords have to notify tenants in writing 90 to 1 Year in advance of the eviction, giving the tenants time to look for a new place to stay.

• Prohibitions on Renting Out After Eviction (Residential 2 Years / Non-Residential 3 Years)

After eviction, in some cases, the landlords cannot lease the place for 2 years (residential) or 3 years (commercial).

• Tenant Rights for Eviction and for Contesting Unjust Notices

Tenants have the right to contest the eviction and dispute the Notices. They can lodge a complaint in the Dubai rental dispute centre.

What are the Important Notes to Keep in Mind Regarding Rental Disputes  

• Read your tenancy contract and understand it before signing it.  
• Register your lease with Ejari as a way to protect your rights for the Ejari Dispute Dubai. 
• Keep your records of all rental payments and communication.  
• Try to resolve the issue first through calm and respectful dialogue with the other party.  
• If necessary, utilise services available to you, such as RERA and the rental dispute centre in Dubai.  
• Closely adhere to the rental laws and regulations of Dubai in order to prevent any potential issues.  
• Know the tenant and landlord rights in the city of Dubai.  
• Disputes that have the potential to be problematic and costly should be resolved in a timely manner.  
• Get legal counsel if the situation is complicated or serious.  
• Honest communication is the most effective in preventing potential rental disputes.  

Risk Management and Operational Continuity in the Time of Disputes  

Having a dispute can slow down business or renting plans, and that is something to keep in mind during the planning stage so that the business or property can continue to run smoothly, even with a dispute.

Our business setup consultants in Dubai with over 12+ years of experience, give more detailed insights, and experts guidance for the process. 

FAQs 

Q1: Can a landlord sue a tenant for rent after the lease ends?

Yes, landlords can ask the court to get rent money even after the lease is finished if the tenant did not pay.

Q2: What happens if a tenant does not go to mediation at the Rental Dispute Centre?

If the tenant skips mediation, the case may go straight to court, making the process faster but with less chance of agreeing peacefully.

Q3: Can a tenant file many complaints against the same landlord?

Tenants can file complaints, but if they do it too many times without a good reason, the centre may stop accepting them to keep things fair.

Q4: Does the centre handle problems with furniture or appliances in rentals?

Yes, if there is a problem with furniture or appliances in a rented place, the Rental Dispute Centre can help decide, but you need proof, like a list or photos.

Q5: Are commercial rental disputes treated differently from home rentals?

Yes, disputes about shops or offices have different rules, like longer notice to leave and sometimes higher fees to File rental dispute Dubai complaint.

Conclusion

Disagreements are always going to happen when it comes to renting a home. No matter which side of the contract you sit, you are both under the same laws. Make sure you read the contract. 

Make sure you register with Ejari. Make sure you keep good records. After these are done, try to solve the problem with direct conversation first. If communicating does not solve the problem, use the Rental Dispute Centre, or get Legal Help. As long as one party communicates, the renting process stays quick, fair, and simple. Just remember, communication is the best option to solve the problem.

Contact Business setup experts in Dubai for a more streamlined process for you!